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Free Gas Cards for Hotel Bookings

Free apology for the high prices with every fill-up
(Courtesy iotae/Flickr)

Many well rated hotels are tempting travelers with free gas cards as a perk for booking a room. The free gas cards are a response to high fuel prices, which are averaging about $3.71 a gallon nationwide, according to AAA.

Here are some examples of gas voucher deals.

Nationwide, anyone who books two separate stays through August 15 at the Choice Hotels chain (which covers Comfort Inn, EconoLodge, and other properties) can earn a $50 gift card to use for gas, dining, or shopping. Details at the Choice Hotels website.

In Colorado Springs, several properties are participating in the "Tank Full of Summer Savings" promotion. For instance, award-winning St. Mary's Inn will reward guests with $25 in gas if they stay at least two nights. (Mention the offer, sponsored by the local visitors bureau, when booking by phone.)

In Fort Lauderdale, the Broward County visitors bureau is giving away $25 American Express gift cards to travelers who book summer stays of at least two nights at select hotels through its website or Facebook page.

In Canada, booking a weeknight stay directly on the websites of participating Marriott resorts with the promo code TRS will grant you free on-site parking and a $25 gas card.

As a rule of thumb, you're better off driving than flying if you're going no more than 400 miles from home and are traveling with at least one other person. For longer trips, use the Fly or Drive? Calculator—which lets you enter your itinerary, car make, and model—and compare it with current fares and fuel prices.

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